Ridley-Tree Cancer Center

Oncology Nutrition

Last fall, Dawn gained a new perspective on that work. After a routine annual mammogram, she was diagnosed with stage two triple-negative breast cancer. Suddenly, the person who had spent years helping others access care became a patient herself.

Now midway through chemotherapy, with surgery and possible radiation still ahead, Dawn has come to rely on the same services she has long championed for others. Among the most important has been the Cancer Foundation-funded nutrition program.

Oncology nutritionist Pam Wells joined Dawn’s care team at the start of treatment. With long-standing digestive issues and new chemotherapy-related side effects, Dawn quickly found the support invaluable. “She reminded me to give myself grace, to be flexible and to make what I did eat count — eat the good stuff, stay hydrated, get enough protein,” Dawn said.

Because Pam meets with Dawn during infusion appointments, the care is both expert and seamless. “She is always well informed, having reviewed my chart and lab results before we meet,” Dawn said. “Having Pam sit with me during treatment allows us to talk through everything without time pressure or interruptions.” For Dawn, the experience has reinforced just how much these donor-funded services matter.

That standard of care is made possible by the generosity of Cancer Foundation donors.

“It’s gratifying to see that the system of supportive care really works.”